The holiday spirit is about to take center stage in West Plains as the Fine Arts Academy gears up to present the second weekend of its rendition of "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever." This heartwarming production is scheduled to enchant audiences at the historic Avenue Theatre, with only four performances left to witness this holiday masterpiece live. more

Editor’s note: This column was first published Dec. 11, 2017. more

A great big thank you to Santa and Mrs. Clause for visiting us at the market and bringing a lot of love and joy to so many children!! more

Hello, fellow food lovers and baking aficionados and welcome back to my kitchen. Today, we're embarking on a delightful journey into the heart of autumn flavors with a recipe that's close to my heart - the Spiced Apple Cake. This isn't just a recipe; it's an exploration of flavors, techniques, and little secrets that make this cake a true masterpiece. So, tie your apron, preheat your oven, and let's dive into the world of baking! more

I read cookbooks like novels, and have a good collection but there is always room for one more. West Plains is fortunate to have an old-fashioned bookstore downtown, for the holiday season, all used cookbooks are half off. That led me there yesterday where, to my surprise, they had a cookbook that I've been wanting for a long time, and due to the sale, it was only $3. The Magnolia Table by Joanna Gaines is everything I thought it would be plus more. I also enjoy her cooking show too. So, I thought it would be fun to make one of her recipes from the book that would be perfect for your holiday menu. Since we will be doing a taco bar for one of our Christmas gatherings, this party queso will pair well. It's simple to make and would make a nice meatless meal too served with chips or tortillas. I can't wait to try it. So, head over to the Book Nook and be sure to check out all the wonderful titles of cookbooks and remember they are half off, there's  always room for one more. Tis the season. more

In an exciting culmination of a four-week national voting contest, Silver Dollar City's "An Old Time Christmas" has been named the "Best Theme Park Holiday Event" in America by USA TODAY’s 10Best. This marks the sixth time the internationally-acclaimed theme park, nestled in the scenic Ozark Mountains of Missouri, has secured this prestigious title. more

A new 12-week program for business and community program employees and members, aimed at honing leadership skills and community engagement, is set to begin soon in West Plains. more

Texas County Memorial Hospital in Houston has achieved gold-level Safe Sleep Certification with the Cribs for Kids National Safe Sleep Hospital Certification Program, officials announce. more

Holidays are great at bringing everyone together. But eating meals as a family shouldn’t just be for special occasions! more

Don Long, head coach of the Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) Grizzly Softball team, has announced the signing of Alexis Eggemeyer, an outfielder from Chester, Illinois, to the 2024-2025 squad. more

Dec. 2 was a busy day in Willow Springs with lots of Holli-Day activities happening downtown, including the second annual Willow Springs Arts Council Invitational Art Show. more

Arts Alliance member events and activities: more

Despite operating for over a decade, the vital role played by the Ozarks Small Business Incubator (OzSBI) in fostering entrepreneurial growth in West Plains and surrounding counties remains relatively unknown to many locals. Established in 2012, this dynamic organization has been the cornerstone of business development in the region, offering a plethora of resources to businesses at various stages of their development. more

Winter camping in the Ozarks offers a serene and starkly beautiful experience, distinct from any other season. The tranquility and challenge of camping in the colder months can be highly rewarding, but it requires thorough preparation and respect for the elements. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make the most of your winter camping adventure in the Ozarks. more

As the vibrant colors of autumn in the Ozarks fade and the landscape transitions into the stark beauty of late fall, often referred to as the “season of the sticks,” photographers are presented with unique challenges and opportunities. The absence of leaves and the pre-winter scenery can reveal a raw, more

What is deer season without deer jerky? Learn how to prepare different types of venison jerky with Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 19! This class is virtual only. more

Walking a trail in winter is a great way to see the outdoors, relieve stress, and stay in shape. more

Caves are unique habitats throughout the year, but in winter, they play a special role for a number of wildlife species. more

Numbers 24:17 I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a STAR out of Jacob, and a SCEPTER shall rise out of Israel... more

The Bible tells us that Jesus was born in the worst of times. In Luke 1:5 we read that he was born “in the days of Herod the king…” who was a ruthless tyrant. The Roman emperor Caesar Augustus (Luke 2:1) was oppressive. Let’s remember that the words to the shepherds are for us, too… “The angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid, for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy to all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior who is Christ the Lord.’” Luke 2:10-11. That means in the face of all the uncertainties of life, we need not fear, for in the baby of Bethlehem we have discovered a God who is loving, gracious, and forgiving. In him we have life, eternal life, and so we have hope. May God bless your week! Diane Cooke, Pastor, Presbyterian Churches, Willow Springs & Mtn. View. more